The Jersey Shore Partnership Summer Celebration 2026 Draws Hundreds to Sandy Hook for a Spectacular Evening Honoring America’s Coastal Legacy

SANDY HOOK, N.J., June 1, 2026 - With the Atlantic Ocean as its backdrop and near-perfect spring weather setting the tone for the evening, the Jersey Shore Partnership welcomed hundreds of guests to Sandy Hook on May 18 for Summer Celebration 2026, a signature gathering honoring the people, partnerships, and shared commitment behind protecting and preserving New Jersey’s coastline.

The event transformed the beachfront at Gateway National Recreation Area into a vibrant showcase of coastal pride, bipartisan leadership, live entertainment, culinary excellence, and community connection, reinforcing the Jersey Shore’s enduring role in America’s story as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary.

Widely regarded as the unofficial kickoff to summer at the Jersey Shore, the annual celebration brought together corporate leaders, elected officials, nonprofit organizations, environmental advocates, tourism leaders, academics, and community partners committed to preserving and strengthening New Jersey’s coastal future.

Held within the Gateway National Recreation Area and inspired by this year’s theme, “America’s Shore: 250 Years of Coastal Legacy,” the evening paid tribute to the history, resilience, and stewardship that continue shaping the Shore and its surrounding communities.

“Summer Celebration is a reminder of what makes the Jersey Shore so special and why protecting it matters. Our beaches bring people together, support our local economy, and serve as a critical line of defense for our coastal communities,” said Grace Hanlon, executive director of the Jersey Shore Partnership. “This year’s event was especially meaningful as we honored America’s coastal legacy while celebrating the people and partnerships that continue strengthening our shores.”

The evening featured live music by Brian Kirk and the Jirks, patriotic performances by the New Jersey Fifes and Drums, a presentation by the Naval Weapons Station Earle Color Guard, and a showcase of classic American automobiles that reflected the event’s Americana-inspired theme.

Guests enjoyed culinary tastings and beverages from more than 40 restaurants, chefs, caterers, and beverage partners from across New Jersey, creating an exceptional coastal dining experience beneath the tent at Sandy Hook.

Summer Celebration 2026 honored the New Jersey Food Council with the Business and Industry Award; New Jersey State Senators Vin Gopal and Declan J. O’Scanlon Jr. with the Legislative Leadership Awards; and Tony MacDonald, former director of the Monmouth University Urban Coast Institute and current senior ocean policy fellow, with The Hon. S. Thomas Gagliano Founder Award.

The Honorable Joe and Susan Kyrillos served as honorary dinner chairs. Frank and Valerie Montecalvo of the Montecalvo/Bayshore Family of Companies served as dinner chairs. Jeanette Hoffman, president of Marathon Public Affairs, and Sharon Franz, sales and marketing director of Steel Pier, served as event chairs.

Proceeds from Summer Celebration support the Jersey Shore Partnership Foundation’s educational and advocacy initiatives focused on coastal protection, beach replenishment, restoration, and long-term shoreline resilience throughout New Jersey.

About The Jersey Shore Partnership Foundation

The Jersey Shore Partnership Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to securing consistent state and federal funding for New Jersey’s coastal protection, with a focus on beach replenishment and restoration. The Foundation works to safeguard the shoreline, infrastructure, economy, and quality of life from storm damage and erosion while advocating for long-term coastal resilience through education, advocacy, and bipartisan collaboration.

For more information, visit jerseyshorepartnership.com or contact Grace Hanlon, executive director, at 732-910-5000 or grace@jerseyshorepartnership.com.